Cate

♀ Girl

Pronounced KAYT /ˈkeɪt/High

Meaning: C-spelling short form of Kate — from Katherine, linked to Greek katharos, 'pure'Medium

In 30 seconds: Pure and crisp: Cate is a C-spelling of Kate — short for Katherine, 'pure'. Sleek, classic, and warm (actress Cate Blanchett).

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Origin MediumGreek

MeaningC-spelling short form of Kate — from Katherine, linked to Greek katharos, 'pure'

U.S. rank (2025)#8978 ↘ Falling

2025 U.S. births11 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2008

Total births (all-time)≈ 1,789

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Cate is a C-spelling short form of Kate — from Katherine, traditionally linked to Greek katharos, 'pure'. A sleek, crisp, classic name (actress Cate Blanchett); the C-styling personalizes it.

It registers thinly beside Kate. Rare, pure at the root, and sleek.

Did you know? Katherine is linked to Greek katharos, 'pure' — Cate is a sleek C-spelling of Kate (actress Cate Blanchett); crisp and classic.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Catherine — root etymology

Variations

KateCaitCaitlin

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

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If you like Cate…

Kate— the standard spelling

Katie— a fellow short form

Catherine— the full name

Caitlin— a companion Cat- name

Explore names like Cate

By themegreek nickname-name

By meaningPurity

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Cate mean?

Cate is a short form of Katherine — linked to Greek 'pure'.

How do you pronounce Cate?

It's said KAYT /ˈkeɪt/ — a single syllable.

Is Cate a boy or girl name?

Cate is a girl's name.

How popular is Cate?

Cate is a rare spelling in the U.S.; Kate is more common.